Nick Cave, who considers himself a humanitarian before an artist, created his first Soundsuit in 1992, after the appalling discharge of police officers involved with the Rodney King beating. Originally created as a sculptural costume, Cave discovered it rustled to movement when put on- each creating their own distinguishable noise. Reminiscent of African and Caribbean ceremonial garb as well as haute couture, Soundsuits examine themes of identity, transformation, ritual, and spiritual strength.
